Enthusiasm in Action: How Performing Mitzvos with Joy Transforms Your Life

Have You Ever Watched Someone Leap Out of Bed for a Ski Trip?

Think about it: on a regular weekday, it might take three alarms, a gentle shake, and a fair amount of grumbling to drag a teen out of bed. But say the word 'amusement park' or 'ski trip' and suddenly, it's as if their bed has been electrified. Eyes snap open, sneakers appear, and an infectious energy fills the room. Have you felt that buzz for anything in your life lately?

Now, imagine channeling that kind of excitement into performing mitzvos. What would our spiritual lives look like if we jumped in with the same anticipation and joy we bring to our favorite adventures?

Heart over Habit: What Science & Torah Teach Together

Modern psychology tells us that our attitude shapes our experiences. Studies show that doing good deeds with authentic positive emotion not only boosts well-being but creates lasting internal motivation. It's not just about getting things done—it's about how we show up.

Judaism knew this long before research caught up. The Sages of the Pirkei Avos famously advised: 'Be bold as a leopard, light as an eagle, run like a deer, and strong as a lion to do the will of your Creator.' This isn't about acting on autopilot—it's about infusing every action with spirit and eagerness.

A Tale of Two Errands

Let's get practical. Picture a parent asking for help: 'Can you fetch a bandage? It's urgent.' The half-hearted response? A slow shuffle, a sigh, a bandage slapped onto the counter. Technically, the job is done—but the love isn't there. It's like showing up late for anything, mitzvos included. They may get checked off—but where's the spark?

Contrast that with buying a birthday card for your best friend. You don't just nab the first card off the rack; you hunt for one that will bring joy to them. It's all about intention and excitement.

Making Enthusiasm a Daily Habit: Easy Steps

• Pause Before you Act: Before each mitzvah, take one deep breath and ask yourself: 'How can I do this with energy and heart today?'
• Visualize the Impact: Imagine how your mitzvah connects you, not just to the commandment, but to the bigger picture of your life story.
• Add a Joy Booster: Turn on your favorite uplifting song while you set your Shabbos table, or smile consciously before lighting candles.
• Reflect on Meaning: Try a quick journal at day's end: 'Which mitzvah made me feel alive? Which felt routine? Why?' You might spot patterns you can grow from!
• Lead by Example: If you have kids or friends nearby, let them see your positive energy. Enthusiasm is contagious.

More Than a Check-list—A Chance to Fly

Rabbi Yitzchak Luria, the legendary Arizal, attributed all his mystical insight to doing mitzvos with joy. He taught that when mitzvos feel like a privilege—not a chore—they open spiritual doors that routine can never reach. The Torah itself warns: it's not enough to perform a mitzvah, we are asked to do it with happiness and gladness of heart. That's the secret sauce for a vibrant relationship with the Divine—or anyone in your life.

Are You Ready to Leap In?

As the sun rises each day, think of it as a personal invitation: life is a grand adventure, and you shape its tone. Will you bring joy and eagerness? Or settle for a slow shuffle?

Whatever mitzvah you do next, try infusing it with a little extra enthusiasm. Notice how your inner world shifts—and watch how your energy lights up the people around you, too.

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